Bell Model 42

After researching the potential market for civil helicopters larger than the Model 47, Lawrence Bell tasked the “Bell” helicopter design bureau with creating a new machine. The result was the Bell Model 42, a very promising helicopter with an elegant, streamlined shape and high flight performance.

This all-metal helicopter accommodated five people, including two pilots sitting side-by-side, and three passengers seated behind them on a common bench. Entry to the cabin was through a car-type door.

Innovative Design and Powerplant

The chosen engine for the helicopter was a Pratt & Whitney R-985 Wasp Junior air-cooled radial engine, installed horizontally in the rear fuselage. The wooden main rotor featured a typical “Bell” design for that period.

A three-bladed, also wooden, tail rotor was located on the right side of the semi-monocoque tail boom.

Challenges and Limited Production

Unfortunately, the Model 42, which first flew in 1946, encountered a number of serious problems. Only three prototypes were built, as the civil rotorcraft market had not yet matured, and no buyers for the helicopter were found.

Technical Specifications

Modification	Bell 42
Main rotor diameter, m	14.48
Tail rotor diameter, m	2.25
Maximum takeoff weight	2315
Engine type	1 Piston engine Pratt & Whitney R-985 Wasp Junior
Power, kW	1 x 336
Maximum speed, km/h	201
Cruising speed, km/h	161
Practical range, km	480
Service ceiling, m	3965
Crew	2 crew
Payload	3 passengers

Image and diagram gallery of the Bell Model 42

Bell 42	Bell 42
Bell 42	Bell 42